Shark of the Week 6 - Chain Catshark

Scientific name, Scyliorhinus retifer. They range from around 37 cm to 50 cm. These Catshark (also known as dogfish) are found in The Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, as well as the Northwest Atlantic. Eating things like squid, bony fish, crustaceans,  and polychaetes (Ocean worms basically), they are nocturnal animals, sleeping much of the day and most active to hunt for food.

Habitat wise, they prefer rocky bottomed floors, and have also been found to live around man-made structures (around underwater cables and wires). As a shy species they prefer hiding, commonly seen doing so both in the wild and in aquariums.

Chain cat sharks lay stringy pouch like eggs (these eggs have also been nicknamed 'mermaid purses')

Catsharks are found deeper in the water around 460 meters (or 1560 feet). Chain catsharks actually get their names from the marks on their bodies, vaguely reminiscent to linked chains (although I think they look more marbled).

Their beautiful dark marbled markings are bio-fluorescent, meaning they glow after absorbing UV light. (seen in image below)

I'm just excited to have a shark that isn't only vaguely known about again! Have another picture <3

Luckily these sharks aren't a concerned species, having no immediate threats to them! :3

Have a fantastic week <3